Shimla, Nov. 12 -- Public works and urban development minister Vikramaditya Singh on Tuesday visited the site of the fire in Jhaniar village of Nohanda panchayat in the Banjar subdivision on Monday to assess the damage caused by the fire. He met with the affected families and assured them of all possible assistance from the state government.

He said that 16 houses, including two temples and four cow shelters, were completely destroyed in the incident.

Vikramaditya said that Jhaniar was a very old village with traditional architecture and to preserve such ancient villages in the state, people should also insure their homes. He said that in view of the incidents of fire, the government will also encourage people to get insurance so that l...